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Welcome to Roadside Peek News. This section
will feature a news peek of what's happening out on the road. While
not pretending to be comprehensive, we hope you'll visit this section
from time to time to keep up on just a sample of issues that are
roadside related. Don't forget to check out the Roadside
Peek main page for the day's update.
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05 | Aug-Dec 04
July 04 | June
04 | May 04 | April
04 | Jan-Mar 04 | 2003
| 2002 | Main
LATEST NEWS
Johnie's 50th Anniversary Celebration a Success
04.20.08 Downey, CA - From a first hand account, the 50th Anniversary Celebration was a success. The new owner of the coming Bob's Big Boy Jim Louder, Adriene Biondo Chair of the MODCOM, as well as many friendly folks from the Friends of Johnie's and locals joined in the celebration of both Johnie's 50th Anniversary and the recent good news that Bob's Big Boy has signed a long term lease. According to Bob's owner Jim Louder, every attempt will be made to keep as much of the huge landmark marquee intact while the change over to Bob's Big Boy signage is made.
See photos from the celebration here.
In addition, here's a link to yesterday's KPCC 89.3 Off Ramp broadcast. Adriene Biondo is interviewed announcing the news about Bob's rebuilding Johnie's. http://www.scpr.org/programs/offramp/
Johnie's Broiler Celebration Cruise Saturday April 19th
04.17.2008 - The Los Angeles Conservancy's Modern Committee, together with the Friend's of Johnie's and the Coalition to Rebuilt the Broiler, has announced a classic car cruise to celebrate Johnie's 50th anniversary and the news that Bob's Big Boy is coming to town. Please see the flyer below for more details.
Thanks to Adriene Biondo for information. modcom.org
Johnie's Broiler to become Bob's Big Boy
04.10.2008 - The news is official that Johnie's Broiler in Downey will now be replaced by Bob's Big Boy. A long term lease has been agreed upon between Bob's Big Boy and Johnie's owner Smyrniotis, 15 months after a saga that began when Johnie's was illegally partially demolished by a lessee. A historic preservation consultant has been hired to determine what pieces of Johnie's are still salvagable, including the fat boy sign. More information can be found at the Press Telegram's article.
Good news and many thanks from all Harvey's and Johnie's Broiler fans to those who helped make this happen and keep the spirit of Johnie's alive, including the Friends of Johnie's, the Coalition to Rebuild Harvey's, and the Modern Committee of the Los Angeles Conservancy.
Many thanks to Adriene Biondo for the alert to this update as well as her tireless efforts working with the local preservation groups, city officials, and the public towards this successful outcome.
Palm Desert Lodge Shuts Doors
04.09.2008 - According to the Desert Sun, the Palm Desert Lodge closed its doors for the last time on April 1, 2008 and will soon be demolished to make way for redevelopment and a Longs drug store. The marquee has now been listed on eBay. The Palm Desert Lodge dates back to the 1950's.
Stan Kite's Restaurant to Reopen as The Waffle Factory
04.08.2008 - The Stan Kite Restaurant in Los Angeles is another great example of Googie Coffee Shop architecture. However, the Kite has been closed and the building has sat vacant for over a decade. Over time, the distinct kite shaped marquee disappeared off the roof and the building appeared to be headed for oblivion.
For once there is good news on the coffee shop front. Instead of mourning yet another loss of a roadside treasure, the news is the former Kite restaurant building is still intact and will be reused as a new 24 hour restaurant.
According to Adriene Biondo who happened upon the new owners of The Waffle Factory while they were installing a gigantic granite countertop, the two owners were very proud that they're contributing something
positive to the community and wanted to preserve the uniqueness of the architecture, yet adapt it
to work for the community. The one owner is also a general contractor and said he was raised in Inglewood and has invested in property there. It seems they're
using high quality materials throughout. Take a look at the bathroom sinks.
The plans are for The Waffle Factory to open between April - May 15th of 2008. The place appears to be worth a visit and hopefully will be a fixture in the community for many years.
Many thanks to Adriene Biondo for update on The Waffle House.
Bob's Big Boy May Rebuild Johnie's Broiler
02.25-2008 - The Los Angeles Conservancy Modern Committee (MODCOM) just sent out an action alert that MODCOM, Friends of Johnie's, and The Coalition to Rebuild the Broiler are announcing that Bob's Big Boy is in negotiations to rebuild Johnie's Broiler.
According to the alert, MODCOM receive an official announcement from City of Downey that Bob's and the owner of Johnie's are working to come to terms to rebuild this 1958 landmark.
Your attendance is being requested at a Downey City Council meeting on Tuesday, February 26, 2008 at 7:30pm
Downey City Hall
11111 Brookshire Avenue
Downey, CA 90241
(562)904-7274
Here is the action alert from MODCOM. If questions, please contact Adriene Biondo, chair of the Los Angeles Conservancy Modern Committee or call (818)943-6621.
Historic Nevada Downtown Area Damaged by Quake
02.24.2008 - This historic district in Wells, NV was damaged when a 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck about 11 miles southeast of the town at 7:16 a.m. MST. Fortunately only minor injuries were reported. According the Salt Lake City Tribune, the earthquake damages included two 19th-century brick buildings In downtown Wells, the El Rancho Hotel and the Bullshead. Both had masonry fall away from their facades.
The Las Vegas Review Journal quoted a Nevada official state the damage to the Wells historic area "looks discouraging." A block of historic buildings on Seventh Street suffered significant damage though they are still standing. The article states that the State's cultural preservation program can not be spent on private property, and the Wells buildings are privately owned.
Photos from the pre-quake days coming soon.
Seattle Bowling Landmark Demolished
11.28.2007 Seattle, WA - After closing in 2006, the Leilani Lanes in Greenwood was demolished a week ago. The 20-foot pin is in danger of meeting the same fate unless someone steps up to claim the sign. Apartments and commercial development is planned for the former site of the 1961 bowling alley. More information can be found in the November 24, 2007 edition of the Seattle Times.
Update 12.11.07 : The Leilani Lanes bowling pin sign has been saved and will be displayed at the Clearview Nursery and Stone, which is located about 25 miles to the northeast of its former location. More information can be found in this November 28, 2007 article of the Seattle Times.
Many thanks to Michele Gould for update.
Vintage Roadside Teams With the National Trust
11.28.2007 - Recently received word that the Vintage Roadside gift shop has launched a new promotion with the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Customers purchasing a t-shirt through Vintage Roadside’s online gift shop will have the option to receive a free one-year membership to the National Trust.
Many thanks to Kelly Burg of Vintage Roadside for update.
Paxton Majestic Theatre Burns Down
11.14.2007 Paxton, IL - The Paxton Majestic Theatre went up in flames on the morning of November 13, 2007 and has been declared a total loss. After catching fire at about 10am, the marquee and roof collapsed an hour later. The theatre was last used for a play in 2006 and has been closed. The state fire marshall's office is investigating the cause of the fire, which also damaged three surrounding buildings in downtown Paxton.
More information can be found in the November 13 edition of The News Gazette and Pantagraph.com.
Many thanks to Doug Ehmen and Chris for update.
The Vegas Frontier Imploded
11.14.2007 Las Vegas, NV - The New Frontier Casino in Las Vegas was imploded at 2:37a.m. early Tuesday morning November 13, 2007. According to the November 13, 2007 edition of the Las Vegas Sun, the old hotel and casino, which was the 2nd oldest property on the Las Vegas Strip, will now become a Plaza resort.
Norms San Gabriel to Close?
10.29.2007 San Gabriel, CA - Heard from well placed sources a couple of months ago (over breakfast) that the Norm's Restaurant in San Gabriel will be closing around the end of the year. Though Norm's had a remodel about 10 years ago, the coffee shop still has a huge amount of counter space and the marquee has withstood the test of time. Word is a shopping center will take its place.
Sands Casino Atlantic City Imploded
10.29.2007 Atlantic City, NJ - The Sands Casino in Atlantic City was imploded on October 18. Vegas based owner Pinnacle Entertainment Inc. plans to build a mega resort, similar to the properties built up in Vegas in recent years.
Goodbye to the New Frontier
07.16.2007 Las Vegas, NV - The New Frontier Casino in Las Vegas was to have shut its doors one minute after midnight Monday morning July 16, 2007. According to the website lasvegasfocus.com, the implosion will be planned for sometime early next year. The new owners will then build a Plaza Hotel in its place, like the Plaza Hotel in New York.
This news is no real surprise after its neighbor, the Stardust, met its demise last year and was imploded earlier in 2007. The New Frontier is well known on the Strip and the huge marquee can be seen for blocks.
Felix Uses One of His Lives
07.16.2007 Los Angeles, CA - The giant Felix sign in downtown Los Angeles is a local icon, but even that status almost did not save Felix from escaping removal from its location where it has resided for almost 50 years. By a 4-2 vote, the Los Angeles City Heritage Commission declared the Felix Chevrolet sign in downtown Los Angeles a historical cultural monument on July 12. The Mayor and a Councilwoman had favored redevelopment at the corner where the dealership and sign currently stand. According to the July 14 Los Angeles Times article, the sign was moved to the Figueroa location in 1958. The landmark status now forces property owners, developers, and city officials to conduct a study before a demolition can take place.
Route 66 Abandoned Bowling Alley May Be History
07.16.2007 Rialto, CA - Just saw this on the Route 66 News blog. In the Route 66 town known for its Wigwam motels, the Orange Bowl may be an afterthought. The Orange Bowl along old Route 66 in Rialto, CA has been closed for about two decades, serving a reminder to the past when large tall bowling alley signs were almost common in every town. Unfortunately, the old abandoned building has also been graffiti, waste, drug paraphernalia, and unknown visitors. According to the July 10, 2007 article in the San Bernardino County Sun, the City of Rialto now wants the building brought up to code or taken down, which the property owner supports.
Change Continues in Vegas
07.02.2007 Las Vegas, NV - Las Vegas is known for constant change, and 2007 continues Sin City's evolution. In March, the Barbary Coast casino was renamed Bill's Gamblin' Hall and Saloon after Harrah's took over ownership. Fremont Street East continues its redevelopment and further down Boulder Highway, the Cimarron Motel lost its neon marquee. Photos to come soon.
Koopman's Closes Down After 66 Years
07.02.2007 Bellflower, CA - Koopman's Furniture closed down in June 2007 after having been open since 1941. The sign will come down and the showroom will be leased to a national furniture chain. According to the Long Beach Press Telegram, the company couldn't keep up with international retailers like Wickes and IKEA. Another mom and pop business shuts down after losing to the big box stores.
Action Required on Tulsa Landmark
06.30.2007 Tulsa, OK - The Tulsa Camelot Hotel is scheduled to be demolished in August 2007. The hotel is located right along the I-44. Plans are for the Castle Hotel to be leveled for a new Quik Trip (7-11) type convenience store. Quik Trip just bought the Camelot for $2 million and is preparing it for demolition. Local polls taken show that 85% of Tulsans do not want to see her taken down.
Action is required quickly to keep this landmark from going under by contacting the local newspaper at Letters@Tulsaworld.com as well as the Mayor Tulsa's action line email address MAC@cityoftulsa.com.
Many thanks to Chris King for update
The Seal Disappears Off Aurora
06.30.2007 Seattle, WA - For many years, a familiar sight for travelers passing through Seattle on Aurora Avenue was the Seal's Motel sign. The Seal marquee was noteworthy for featuring a neon seal with a beach ball spinning on its nose. The sign is now gone and replaced with a backlit plastic sign.
Many thanks to Mike Fuller for update
Another Lyons Coffee Shop Is Demolished
06.30.2007 Stockton, CA - Space age coffee shops are becoming a rare sight these days, and the loss of yet another Lyons just adds fuel to the fire. The Lyons Restaurant on Pacific Avenue in Stockton, CA was razed on May 29, 2007 after being open since 1965. The restaurant closed down in 2005 and has been vacant since then. According to the Stockton Record, plans are to build an Elephant Bar Restaurant in its place.
Many thanks to Suzanne Astorino for update
Clayton Plumbers Sign Threatened
04.08.2007 Los Angeles, CA - The Clayton Plumbers sign
is scheduled to come down on April 16th.
Many thanks to Adriene Biondo for update
According to the National Trust's Preservation Online, the owner of the business says the Clayton Plumbers sign
is to costly to maintain and will be donating to the Museum of Neon Art (MONA). The Los Angeles Conservancy as well as MONA is hoping its remains in its place along Westwood Boulevard like it has been for the last 60 years.
Stardust Hotel and Casino 1958 - 2007 R.I.P.
03.13.2007 Las Vegas, NV - Old Vegas has lost another treasure. Like the Dunes, Sands, Desert Inn, and even the recent Boardwalk and Bourbon Street, the Stardust evokes memories of showgirls, high rollers, and Rat Pack type of entertainment. Sadly, the Stardust is now no more, gone like a sweater in a puddle.
Space Age Lyons Bulldozed
03.13.2007 Sacramento, CA - Another coffee shop treasure has been obliterated off the roadside landscape. Demolition began on the Lyons Restaurant on 2945 Watt Avenue in Sacramento on March 5, 2007 about a week after a back hoe was spotted outside the suddenly fenced off Lyons on February 27, 2007.
Many thanks to John Flores for update
Route 66 Landmark Pig Hip Destroyed by Fire
03.13.2007 Broadwell, IL - A piece of Route 66 was lost when the historic Pig Hip Restaurant and Museum was lost to a fire on March 5, 2007 and was destroyed. Owner and proprietor Ernie Edwards opened the Pig Hip up for business in 1937 and enjoyed a successful business up until he decided to close in 1991, creating a museum of Route 66 memorabilia in the process. Fortunately, Ernie and his wife Frances weren't home when the fire broke out.
(Photos to be posted soon)
Goody Goody No More
03.13.2007 Tampa, FL - The Goody Goody Drive-in eatery in Tampa, FL was torn down in 2006 after closing its doors on November 30, 2005. Open since 1925, the Goody Goody was well known for it burgers and butterscotch pie. Today, the site is just vacant land.
Many thanks to Mark Sevigny for update
Harvey's / Johnie's Ghost Cruise A Success
03.13.2007 Downey, CA - According to multiple reports, the Ghost Cruise for Harvey's Broiler on February 25, 2007 was a success. Almost 40 cars cruised from the starting point at Bob's Big Boy in the morning and other joined in during the various stops on the way to Johnie's/Harvey's Broiler. Given the short notice and cold weather, an estimated turnout of 80 participants was a phenomenal showing.
Many thanks to Adriene Biondo for update
(Photos to be posted soon)
More Roadside Motels Disappear
03.13.2007 Santa Rosa, CA - The Llano Motel was demolished on March 10, 2007 after being the subject of much controversy. The city of Santa Rosa demolished it because the owners were allowing prostitution to
go on. Normally, they would just arrest the owner and/or force him to
sell the property.
In this case, despite the building's historical significance (it's 87
years old) the city opted to demolish what was a well kept-up
building and neon sign.
These days, the city has a sign ordinance
that only allows signs on the ground or on the building itself. As a
result, most signs are backlit plastic. But the city's real motive for demolishing the building is it's close
proximity to a huge shopping center. The motel will make way for a
new Starbucks, or other chain store.
Many thanks to Bro Duke for update
03.13.2007 Las Vegas, NV - The Star View Motel has changed names to the Alicia Motel and the famous space age sign has been redone. With the redevelopment going on near the El Cortez Hotel, who knows how long the old Fremont throwback motels will be around.
(Photos to be posted soon)
Ground Broken on Harvey House El Garces Rehabilitation
03.13.2007 Needles, CA - Ground breaking on the restoration of the historic El Garces Hotel in Needles, CA took place on March 7, 2007. The El Garces was opened in 1908 as a Santa Fe Railway/Fred Harvey Hotel and has been abandoned since 1988 after closing in 1949. According to the March 3, 2007 article in the Mohave Daily News, the project manager in charge of the rehabilitation also worked on the La Posada Hotel in Winslow, AZ.
(Photos to be posted soon)
Illinois Drive-in Theatres to Reopen
03.13.2007 Joliet, IL - The Hilltop Drive-in Theatre in Joliet, IL will be re-opening in April 2007 after being closed since 2001. Here is their new website.
03.13.2007 Rockford, IL - According to the new owners, a contract has been signed to purchase and re-open the Sunset Drive-in Theatre located at 1801 Samuelson Road in Rockford, IL in May 2007. The theatre has been dark since 1986.
Many thanks to David for updates
Reno Motel Partially Closed Due to Code Violations
03.13.2007 Reno, NV - The Lakemill Lodge on the south end of the downtown area was closed on February 26, 2007 due to numerous violations of safety and fire codes. According to the February 27, 2007 issue of the Reno Gazette-Journal, residents in the west tower were moved to nearby motels.
(Photos to be posted soon)
Valley National Bank Demolished
03.13.2007 Tempe, AZ - The former Valley National Bank in Tempe, AZ was demolished on February 10, 2007 after the gold colored geodesic dome roof was removed from the 1962 building. According to the February 14, 2007 issue of the East Valley Tribune, the Valley National Bank branch building had been serving as a visitor's center for the Arizona State University since 1989. The visitors center had closed in 2006 to make way for an honors college.
(Photos to be posted soon)
Coney Island Attractions Being Bulldozed
03.13.2007 Coney Island, NY - The area between Surf Avenue and the Boardwalk is being bulldozed by a developer with plans to build luxury condos amidst a $2 billion Vegas style amusement area. According to the March 10, 2007 issue of The Brooklyn Paper, former attractions such as a go cart track and batting cages have already been torn down. It appears that the Astroland property is also at risk.
Twin Hi-Way Drive-in Plans to Return After 13 Years
01.20.2007 PIttsburgh, PA - Good news on the status of the Twin Hi-Way Drive-in located in Pittsburgh, PA. Regency Cinema Services Inc., a PA Based Corporation, has signed a lease to reopen the drive-in in the Spring of 2007. The sign and the rest of the drive-in will be restored to its original 1950's glory. This massive 400 car lot will provide state of the art entertainment and plans are almost definite to twin this magnificent drive-in after thirteen years of silence.
Many thanks to Jerry Salnoris for update.
Skateland Closes
01.20.2007 Whittier, CA - The Skateland in Whittier has been a stop for garage bands in addition to its operation as a skating rink for over 50 years. The Skateland closed as of October 1, 2006 and likely will be demolished due to an EPA Superfund cleanup project.
Johnie's Broiler Demolished; Sign Still Stands
| Due to the large amount of news related activity in the aftermath of the Johnie's partial demolition, all of Roadside Peek's Johnie's Broiler updates will be posted at the Johnie's Broiler special section and Roadside News. |
On January 7, 2007, a couple of bulldozers suddenly appeared on site and started razing the carhop area and structure. By the time alert citizens contacted the authorities, it was too late. The carhop and a good portion of the restaurant area had already been demolished. The police stopped the demolition due to lack of permit. According to the January 9, 2007 Press-Telegram, numerous possible OSHA violations occurred. "According to police reports, the gas and electricity were not switched off at the time of the razing nor was the area fenced off from the general public, creating an unsafe environment for bulldozing contractors."
After receiving requests to post their comments, just added: Johnie's Broiler Comments and Memories from the many notes that have been sent in since the demolition.
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01.10.2007 Downey CA - The Downey City Council met the evening of Jan 10. According to the Long Beach Press-Telegram article, the City Council expressed outrage and vowed to take action against those responsible for the illegal demolition. Many residents were present at the crowded council chambers and spoke up in favor of preserving what's left of Johnie's and/or rebuilding the coffee shop as well as expressed outrage at the events of January 7.
Added a new section highlighting Johnie's Broiler.
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01.08.2007 Downey CA - News of this illegal demolition has traveled fast. Here are links to other sites and news stories related to this story. Photos from early afternoon the day after will be posted here shortly.
CBS Channel 2 News video clip of breaking news. See Channel 2's video clip here.
LottaLiving.com has a message thread dedicated to this topic that's growing quickly.
JohniesBroiler.com is a new site that has been launched by a Downey citizen.
Long Beach Press Telegram article: A Landmark In Ruins. 01/08/07 11:00pm.
NBC4TV article: Preservationists Cry Foul Over Demolition Of 1950's Diner. 01/08/07 08:41am.
CBS2.com : Retro Diner Torn Apart In Downey. 01/08/07 12:33am.
Long Beach Press Telegram: Downey landmark unexpectedly razed. 01/08/07 12:03am.
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01.07.2007 Downey CA - Just got word that Johnie's was demolished without permits or warning starting at approximately 3:30 PM Sunday evening (Jan 7, 2007). The owner claims no knowledge prior to contact by the city. He arrived at the scene at around 8:45 pm and was questioned by authorities. A crowd appeared as others just drove by in a state of disbelief. The sign is still standing, but it appears to be buckling from the strain. Many thanks to John M. Benton for above info 9:37pm.
Update 12 midnight: An onsite visit to the former Harvey's Broiler, more recently known as Johnie's Broiler, saw the roadside treasure's carhop and dining areas bulldozed. The huge Johnie's sign with "fat boy" still stands. When these photos were taken, a KCAL 9 news van was onsite as well as members of the community at large. Members from the Los Angeles Conservancy's Modern Committee were also on hand, assessing the damage to this historical landmark.
Following up on the initial report, word on the street is that no demolition permits had been issued and local authorities stopped the demolition after much damage had already been made.
Here are photos taken the evening of January 7, 2007.
CBS Channel 2 News as well as other networks covered this story as breaking news. See Channel 2's video clip here.
Stardust Sign and La Concha Lobby Find New Home
01.03.2007 Las Vegas, NV - The sign from the former Vegas iconic Stardust Hotel and the lobby to the mid-century era La Concha Motel will find a new location at the Las Vegas Neon Museum. The La Concha will become a visitor's center and gift shop. More info here.
Merced Theatre Tower Receives Makeover
01.03.2007 Merced, CA - The historic tower from the Merced Theatre in Merced, CA was renovated over the summer of 2006. The tower's orange pyramid roof and blue neon sign were lit up in the fall. More info in the December 29, 2006 issue of the Merced Sun Star.
Historic Walgreen and Stuarts Buildings May Be Razed
01.03.2007 San Antonio, TX - The Walgreen and Stuarts buildings in downtown San Antonio are in in danger of being demolished after Walgreen Co. has stated that they will move locations if a new structure is not built in its place. According to this December 5, 2006 article from MySA.com, the Walgreen Building dates back to the late 1800's and the Stuarts building was built in 1925. The San Antonio City Council had bestowed historic landmark status on the buildings back in 1987.
Photos to be up in a few days.
Ranch House Motel in Yerington Torn Down
01.03.2007 Yerington, NV - The Ranch House Motel in Yerington, NV was torn down after 54 years in business. According to the December 22, 2006 edition of the Reno Gazette-Journal, the Ranch House Motel was torn down in mid-December 2006 after being purchased by the developer of a nearby commercial and residential project. The motel was originally built in 1952. 01-07
Happy New Year!
Happy New Year to all of our readers, contributors, and lovers of the road. After over 8 years online, we've discovered many roadside treasures, but also sadly seen too many disappear. Wishing you all continued safe traveling on your road trips and don't forget to stop in from time to time to continue this Adventure in Time.
Wagon Wheel Motel and Restaurant Closes Pending Demolition
12.31.2006 Oxnard, CA - When traveling down highways and interstates, tired from the hundreds of miles already traveled with eyes squinting as they burn, the old establishments with their neon signs along the road can be a welcome sight. Much like seeing an old friend. Travelers on Highway 101 in Oxnard will no longer see the neon stagecoach driver on the huge Wagon Wheel Restaurant on the west end of the freeway as this historic property has closed is doors on December 10, 2006 and the last tenant has left the premises.
According to the December 21, 2006 issue of the Ventura County Reporter, the Oxnard Village Investments LLC has purchased the Wagon Wheel parcel of land with proposed plans to develop 1,500 residential units and a commercial complex. Possible milestones coming up soon include a draft environmental impact report in February or March of 2007 with demolition starting up in September 2007.
Many thanks to Jeff Babb for contact regarding motel and restaurant closure.
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Alert! The entire Wagon Wheel complex threatened with major development, including:
- original layout and property configuration
- all the neon signage, including the amazing animated stagecoach and bowl sign
- Western themed bowling center and intact coffee shop inside
- Western themed motel, motel office, restaurant
- landscaping which still retains its rustic Western motif
Please contact Adriene at astroluxe@mindspring.com for info on how to help preserve this historic landmark.
Many thanks to Adriene Biondo for the Wagon Wheel alert.
Pollardville Amusement Center to Close
12.31.2006 Lodi, CA - A sign of the times, the Pollardville Amusement Center is in the process of closing down. The Pollardville Palace Saloon will closed its doors on March 31, following with the Chicken Restaurant honored with a closing ceremony on April 1. Originally opened in 1944 as the Chicken Kitchen Restaurant, the restaurant moved in 1957 to its current location along Highway 99 between Stockton and Lodi and started the Pollardville complex.
Efforts continue to save the 1870's era Jamestown Jail, which is part of the Pollardville site. According to the December 28, 2006 edition of the Union Democrat, The Irving J. Symons Foundation, in connection with the Sonora Area Foundation, has pledged money to pay for about half the cost of returning the Jamestown Jail to the county. The move must be made before Pollardville is bulldozed this spring.
Pollardville photos to be posted soon.
Astro Motel and Lounge to be Sold
12.31.2006 Fresno, CA - The Astro Motel and Lounge located off of Motel Drive in Fresno has been sold, though not sure if the deal has been completely finalized. The Astro is a familiar sight off of Highway 99 and used to be well known for its neon that would flicker a bright red shot up to the stars. According the the November 27, 2006 Fresno Bee, word from the customers is the new owner may fix the place up.
North Star Boots Being Renovated
10.23.2006 San Antonio, TX - For 26 years, the large Boots at the North Star Mall in San Antonio, TX have caught the eye of residents and travelers alike. The word is that mall management would like the boots to stay around for at least 26 more. Today, the 40 foot tall pair of boots built by sculptor Bob Wade are being restored and painted. For more information, see the October 16, 2006 article by the San Antonio Express-News.
St-Elmo-Tel Motel in Austin Demolished
10.23.2006 Austin, TX - The St-Elmo-Tel Motel, known for being one of the first roadside motels still around as you drive up S Congress Avenue in Austin is in the process of being demolished. Bulldozers were actively chipping away at this old motel in September. Word is the sign has been sold to a collector.
Cactus Jacks's Senator Club Sold
10.16.2006 Carson City, NV - The Cactus Jack's Senator Club has been purchased by Scott Tate and a partner, the sale of which is still pending upon approval from the Nevada Gaming Control Board. According to the Carson Times article, Tate intends to keep the casino intact. Carson City will be completely bypassed by the freeway in 2010.
Pontiac Sign Removed
10.16.2006 El Monte, CA - The giant Pontiac sign with the classic Native American logo was removed from the Scott Pontiac dealership. This marquee was one of the best of the remaining Pontiac logos left now that the Majestic Pontiac sign in the Crenshaw district of Los Angeles was redone.
Earl Abel's Razed Over
10.16.2006 San Antonio, TX - The famous Earl Abel's restaurant in San Antonio closed down in 2005 and was demolished in 2006. The site will be home to condos. The restaurant had been open since 1933.
Many thanks to Bradley Schwartze for contact and link to news article.
During a trip to San Antonio in September 2006, Earl Abel's was sorely missed. There appeared to be another Earl Abel's looking nondescript in a strip mall just a few miles away from its old location on Broadway.
Ohio Art Deco Drive-in Torn Down
09.05.2006 Cleveland, OH - The gorgeous art-deco Miles Drive-In in Cleveland has been torn down. It stood dormant for years but was razed this past August. This style of drive-in is the most sought-out, yet the rarest to find (let alone operating).
Many thanks to Mark Hackett for update.
Downtown Vegas Structures May Fall
09.05.2006 Las Vegas, NV - These days, Las Vegas appears to be a constant flux. According to the February 7, 2006 edition of the Las Vegas Business Press, the Hotel Nevada, Queen of Hearts Hotel, and the Ambassador East Motel on Fremont Street may face the wrecking ball as they're not profitable enough.
Visalia California Loses Another One
08.18.2006 Visalia, CA - First the word came in that the Mooney Drive-in Theatre is shutting its gates for good at the end of August and now the news has come in that the landmark Mearles Drive-in restaurant closed its doors on Tuesday August 15, 2006. Word is that the owners of the restaurant were evicted due to back rent. The future of Mearles appears to be bleak. More news can be found at the website of ABC 30.
Many thanks to Chet Wilson for contact.
Vegas Loses Its Black Jack
08.18.2006 Las Vegas, NV - No city changes as rapidly as Las Vegas, NV. With Vegas rapid development, the old casinos, signs, and businesses that were fixtures from the Vegas mid-century are going by the wayside. The Black Jack Motel along Boulder Highway recently met the same fate as its larger neighbor across the street, the former Showboat and Castaways Casino. The Black Jack Motel is now a pile of rubble.
Many thanks to Chet Wilson for contact.
End of Era for Jack's Salad Bowl
07.31.2006 Whittier, CA - Jack's Salad Bowl has been a Whittier staple for many years. Jack's has now become El Pulpo Restaurant and the Jack's rooftop sign has been replaced with one calling out the new restaurant's name. The new restaurant is being worked on and will be open soon.
One of the interesting parts of driving down Whittier Boulevard was seeing two Jack's restaurants complete with unique roadside signage within a mile of each other. Now there is only one.
Last Summer for the Mooney Drive-in
07.28.2006 Visalia, CA - The word is out that Mooney Auto Theater is closing its gates for good the end of August 2006. It sits on some prime property between Visalia and Tulare. Lots of big business going on out there in the form of major shopping centers and such. The property owner has a new interest which does not involve an outdoor movie theme. People of all ages are extremely sad to see it go and have gone to see the same movie repeatedly just to be at the theater to create a memory with family and friends. There isn't a whole lot to do in our relatively small California town and now there's one less tradition to share and pass on. Think we can still find a few of those peacocks hanging around the shopping center looking for somebody to chase them off around dusk?
Many thanks to Teresa Woods for update.
In California, Drive-in Theatres continue to drop at an alarming rate. Los Angeles, the largest county in the state has just one open drive-in It's a shame to see yet another drive-in movie theatre go.
Another Fallon Nevada Landmark Disappears
07.28.2006 Fallon, NV - The final season for Bob's Root Beer was fall of 2005. The owner sold the property and it is now a used car lot. Rumor is he took the big mug sign and has it in his back yard somewhere.
Many thanks to Frank C. for update.
The Lariat Motel and Roper Drive-in Theatre have also disappeared from Fallon recently. |
